Accessibility
Since 2005, France has a law on accessibility (loi handicap), which obliges all public buildings and means of transport to become accessible. However, the implementation significantly lags behind the theory.
Where it works
- TGV and long-distance trains — have wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets. Reservations through the SNCF "Accès Plus" service (48 hours in advance, free assistance at the station)
- Paris Metro — the newer line 14 is fully accessible. All other lines are largely not (historic stations without elevators). However, almost all buses are equipped with ramps
- Major museums — Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, Centre Pompidou are well accessible with ramps and elevators
- Modern hotels (from 3 stars) must offer accessible rooms
Where it gets difficult
- Old towns — cobblestones, narrow alleys, and stairs in historic centers (Montmartre, Old Town of Lyon, medieval villages)
- Older metro stations — deep shafts without elevators, steep stairs
- Sidewalks — often narrow, parked over, or blocked by bollards
Helpful resource: jaccede.com — platform with accessibility ratings for restaurants, hotels, and public places in France.
